Mandibular Distraction in Robin Sequence – A Systematic Review of Morphologic Changes and Implications for Long-Term Growth

Abstract

Robin Sequence (RS) is a collection of distinct morphologic features involving the face and upper airway that results from the abnormal development of the neonatal mandible. Typically described as the triad of micrognathia, glossoptosis, and upper airway obstruction, it is frequently associated with a cleft palate and can be found in isolation or as part of a syndromic presentation. Owing to the intimate relationship between the mandible and its soft tissue attachments, micrognathia manifests clinically with respiratory and feeding difficulties. There is significant heterogeneity in both the degree of anatomic aberration and the associated physiological compromise, which dictates the medical and surgical treatment plan. In severe cases requiring surgical intervention, mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) has been shown to be successful in relieving airway obstruction by correcting the morphologic deficiency of the mandible. However, controversy persists regarding the best treatment method as the exact relationship between the anatomic changes affected by MDO and the physiologic improvement remains poorly understood. This controversy is fueled by differing opinions about the natural growth potential of the abnormal mandible in patients with RS and the lack of long-term data on the maxillomandibular relationship at skeletal maturity of patients who underwent MDO in infancy. The objective of this systematic review is to provide a comprehensive summary of the morphologic changes to the mandible, upper airway, and hyoid bone affected by MDO and the impact of these changes on physiologic improvement and long-term growth.